Heading to Sarasota on Friday? Expect ‘significant traffic delays’ during Pence visit

Heavy traffic delays can be expected in and around Sarasota beginning late Friday afternoon through the early evening due to the arrival of Vice President Mike Pence, according to the Sarasota Police Department.

Police sent notice to motorists Friday morning.

“There will be a large number of additional Sarasota police officers assigned to this event to address the security and traffic needs and to ensure normal traffic flow is resumed as soon as possible,” the department said. “Rest assured our personnel will do everything possible to lessen the impact of this visit on our community.”

Police advised motorists to allow for additional time if you are planning to travel through the city.

Due to expected road closures, the Sarasota Opera has also announced that its performance of Romeo & Juliet is being moved to 8 p.m.

Pence is expected to arrive at the Sarasota Bradenton Airport later Friday afternoon. His motorcade will head west toward Longboat Key for a fund-raising event at the home of U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan R-Longboat Key.

This story was originally published February 28, 2020 at 11:00 AM.